Sunday Social: Thewlis’ impressive debut, Leeds’ Newman eyeing top five spot, emotional scenes at Hull FC

James Messenger

It is time for Love Rugby League’s Sunday Social, your alternative recap of the serious and not so serious talking points from the past seven days. 

Halifax issued a jovial warning to clubs after the performance of Scott Murrell during last Sunday’s Challenge Cup quarter-final win over Bradford. This comes after former Great Britain international Garry Schofield suggested that Leeds should sign the veteran half-back for the remainder of the season.

There was plenty of praise for Warrington youngster Josh Thewlis from supporters and coaches-alike after his promising debut against Catalans. The 17-year-old became the first player born in the 21st century to represent Warrington in Super League.

Peter Mata’utia’s golden point drop-goal for Castleford against Huddersfield on Friday night sparked wild celebrations at the Mend-a-Hose Jungle. The Tigers’ late winner moved them to within two points of third-placed Catalans in the Betfred Super League table.

There were emotional scenes at the KCOM Stadium as Jansin Turgut’s two former clubs, Hull FC and Salford, went head to head. Turgut has been recovering in hospital after falling from a three-storey car park in Ibiza. Turgut’s partner Steph Gaunt was in attendance as Hull withstood a Red Devils fightback to win 35-32.

Leeds made it back-to-back wins on Friday night after a 10-0 win over Wakefield in atrocious conditions at the Mobile Rocket Stadium. After the game, Man-of-the-Match Harry Newman admitted that the Rhinos were still confident of reaching the playoffs.

The opening game of 2019 State of Origin saw was full of drama, big hits and spectacular tries, with Queensland taking a series lead courtesy of a Dane Gagai double. However, the main excitement for these children seemed to come after the match had finished…

Finally, Thursday was a hectic day for Wigan. The club decided to announce a whole host of player news, including the signings of Jake Bibby and Mitch Clark, as well as contract extensions for Joe Burgess, Tony Clubb, Chris Hankinson, Morgan Smithies, Ollie Partington and Jack Wells. Love Rugby League Editor James Gordon summed the afternoon up perfectly.

Championship Castleford Tigers